The North Fork Fire Department was on standby during the Moose Fire in Idaho. Photo by Sheena Waters, Salmon-Challis National Forest, InciWeb
Wildfires are uncontrolled fires that burn in wildland vegetation, often in rural areas. They can burn in forests, grasslands, savannas, and other ecosystems, and have been doing so for hundreds of millions of years. Wildfires are not limited to a particular continent or environment. They can burn in vegetation located both in and above the soil. Ground fires typically ignite in soil thick with organic matter that can feed the flames, like plant roots. Wildfires are caused by a variety of factors, including lightning, human activity, and volcanic eruptions. In the United States, about 85% of wildfires are caused by humans. The most common causes of human-caused wildfires are campfires left unattended, debris burning, equipment use and malfunctions, negligently discarded cigarettes, and intentional acts of arson. The severity of a wildfire is determined by a number of factors, including the type of vegetation, the weather conditions, and the topography of the land. Wildfires can range in size from a few acres to thousands of square miles. They can burn at temperatures of up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit and can destroy homes, businesses, and infrastructure. Wildfires have a significant impact on the environment. They can release harmful pollutants into the air, which can cause respiratory problems and other health problems. Wildfires can also destroy wildlife habitat and disrupt ecosystems.
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Location: USA
Photo credit: © American Photo Archive / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
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